South Africans ‘destroy’ Nigerian businesses

The Nigerian Community in South Africa has confirmed attacks and looting of Nigerian- owned
 businesses in Pretoria West on Saturday.

Ikechukwu Anyene, president, Nigeria Union, told the ERICGOSSIP of Nigeria (EG) on email from Pretoria,
 South Africa, that the attacks began at 4.00 a.m.

He said the union had reported the incident to the Nigerian mission and South African police.

“As we speak, five buildings with Nigerian businesses, including a church have been looted and burned by South Africans.

“One of the buildings is a mechanic garage with 28 cars under repairs, with other vital documents, were burned during the attack.

“Also, the pastor of the church was wounded
and is in the hospital receiving treatment,” he
said.

Mr. Anyene said the union had informed Nigerians in South Africa to be vigilant in the face of renewed xenophobic attacks.

According to him, the union received information that there will be xenophobic attacks against foreigners on Feb. 22 and Feb. 23.

“We began taking precautionary measures when the
 incident took place today.

“The attack in Pretoria West is purely xenophobic and 
criminal attack because they loot the shops and homes
 before burning them,” he said.

Mr. Anyene called on the Federal Government to persuade
 its South African counterpart to protect Nigerians in their country.

“These attacks should not be allowed to continue because 
it is a big setback,” he said.